Wellesley Hills Childrens Center

We welcome children into our Preschool 1 classroom at age 2.9 years old. Some children join us with experience in other group settings while others are experiencing a classroom for the first time. We work closely with parents/caregivers to ensure that the transition to our program is as smooth as possible. Home visits, Center visits, and ongoing communication help to meet this goal. Throughout the year in the Preschool 1 classroom, children will begin to gain a sense of independence as they are supported in their efforts to develop self-help skills and problem solving skills with peers. With gentle guidance and encouragement, we help children to develop self-confidence, to express their thoughts and feelings and to try new activities. Children are introduced to letter sounds, letter recognition, basic math concepts (such as one-to-one correspondence and patterning), books, music and art. The children are offered opportunities to participate in Morning Meeting activities and help with classroom jobs, ie. weather watcher and friend counter! Our Preschool 1 curriculum incorporates activities that address all areas of development. Teachers work hard to meet the individual needs and goals of each child in the classroom and communicate regularly with parents, both informally and formally.

In our Preschool 2 classroom, children’s sense of curiosity and interest in learning is recognized and appreciated. Classroom themes are developed with the children’s unique interests in mind. Teachers work with children daily on letter recognition, letter sounds, basic math skills and simple science concepts. In addition, reading, music and art are included on a daily basis. Children will be taught how to use a proper grasp of scissors and writing materials as they learn and explore how to express themselves through writing and art. Small group time allows our teachers to focus on your child’s individual development using games and targeted activities to engage each child in different ways and to encourage individual development of skills. Children are given the vocabulary to solve peer conflicts in a kind and respectful manner. Children will learn patience, understanding and how to engage successfully with their peers and teachers. At Wellesley Hills Center for Early Education, we celebrate that each child is unique and learns at a different rate. Our curriculum is tailored to adjust to the pace at which each child learns best with the goal of appropriately challenging children with achievable goals.

Our Pre-K classroom provides a comfortable environment for children to confidently express themselves and share their unique interests and ways of thinking. Special attention is given to helping children to develop a high level of self-confidence and independence. Conflict resolution skills and appropriate use of language are focused on daily as well as during weekly Small Group activity sessions. Whole group meeting time and special project presentations encourage children to become more comfortable speaking in front of a group of peers.